A fire service spokesperson said: "Approximately 3,000 wooden pallets are involved in the fire and the building was well alight when crews first arrived at the scene.

"Firefighters are currently tackling the fire using breathing apparatus, six jets, and aerial ladder platforms. The adjacent train line has temporarily suspended traffic through the area and support has been requested from engineers at Electricity North West.

"There are no reports of casualties but the fire involving wooden pallets has generated a large plume of smoke and anyone living or working nearby is advised to keep windows shut and if out and about, to stay away from the area for the time being."

In a statement National Rail said: "A lineside fire at Huncoat is causing disruption to trains between Blackburn and Rose Grove.

"Trains are unable to run between Accrington and Rose Grove and road transport has been requested to operate between Accrington, Rose Grove and Todmorden."

The cause of the fire is not yet known.

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Catherine Payne who lives on nearby Bluebell Way said the fire appears to be worsening.

She said: “It seems to be getting worse, the fire’s getting bigger. The road’s been closed off and there has just been quite a big explosion as well. It’s pretty severe.

“Fire engines are blocking the railway.”

Catherine added: “I spotted the fire when I was coming back from a friend’s house and thought it was my house that was on fire. We have lived here a couple of years and I have never seen anything like that before, I am just hoping the trees don’t catch fire as well.”